Anthropologists and Archeologists : Occupational Outlook Handbook : U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Anthropologists and Archeologists
Summary
Archeologists manage and protect archeological
sites.
Quick Facts: Anthropologists and Archeologists
2012 Median Pay
$57,420 per year
$27.61 per hour
Entry-Level Education
Master’s degree
Work Experience in a Related Occupation
None
On-the-job Training
None
Number of Jobs, 2012
7,200
Job Outlook, 2012-22
19% (Faster than average)
Employment Change, 2012-22
1,400
What Anthropologists and Archeologists Do
Anthropologists and archeologists study the origin, development, and behavior of humans. They examine the cultures, languages,
archeological remains, and physical characteristics of people in various parts of the world.
Work Environment
Although most anthropologists and archeologists work in an office, some analyze samples in laboratories or work in the field. They
typically work in research organizations, colleges and universities, museums, consulting firms, private corporations, and government.
Fieldwork in remote areas usually requires travel for extended periods.
How to Become an Anthropologist or Archeologist
Anthropologists and archeologists need a master’s degree or Ph.D. in anthropology or archeology. Experience doing anthropological or
archeological fieldwork is also important. Bachelor’s degree holders may find work as assistants or fieldworkers.
Pay
The median annual wage for anthropologists and archeologists was $57,420 in May 2012.
Job Outlook
Employment of anthropologists and archeologists is projected to grow 19 percent from 2012 to 2022, faster than the average for all
occupations. However, because it is a small occupation, the fast growth will result in only about 1,400 new jobs over the 10-year period.
Jobseekers will likely face very strong competition.
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Anthropologists and Archeologists : Occupational Outlook Handbook : U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Similar Occupations
Compare the job duties, education, job growth, and pay of anthropologists and archeologists with similar occupations.
More Information, Including Links to O*NET
Learn more about anthropologists and archeologists by visiting additional resources, including O*NET, a source on key characteristics
of workers and occupations.
What Anthropologists and Archeologists Do
Anthropologists and archeologists often do fieldwork.
Anthropologists and archeologists study the origin, development, and behavior of humans. They examine the cultures, languages,
archeological remains, and physical characteristics of people in various parts of the world.
Duties
Anthropologists and archeologists typically do the following:
Plan research projects to answer questions and test hypotheses about the interaction between nature and culture
Develop data collection methods tailored to a particular specialty or project
Collect information from observations, interviews, and documents
Record and manage records of observations taken in the field
Analyze data, laboratory samples, and other sources of information to uncover patterns about human life, culture, and origins
Prepare reports and present research findings
Advise organizations on the cultural impact of policies, programs, and products
By drawing and building on knowledge from the humanities and the social, physical, and biological sciences, anthropologists and
archeologists examine the ways of life, languages, archeological remains, and physical characteristics of people in various parts of the
world. They also examine the customs, values, and social patterns of different cultures.
Many anthropologists and archeologists use sophisticated tools and technologies in their work. Although the equipment used varies by
task and specialty, it often includes excavating tools, laboratory equipment, statistical and database software, geophysical tools and
equipment, and geographic information systems.
Some anthropologists study the social and cultural consequences of current human issues, such as overpopulation, natural disasters,
warfare, and poverty; others study the prehistory and the evolution of humans.
A growing number of anthropologists perform market research for businesses by studying the demand for products by a particular
culture or social group. For example, using their anthropological background and a variety of techniques—including interviews,
surveys, and observations—they may collect data on how a product is used by specific demographic groups.
Archeologists examine, recover, and preserve evidence and artifacts from past human cultures. They analyze skeletal remains and
artifacts, such as tools, pottery, cave paintings, and ruins of buildings. They connect artifacts with information about past environments
to learn about the history, customs, and living habits of people in earlier eras.
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Anthropologists and Archeologists : Occupational Outlook Handbook : U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Archeologists also manage and protect archeological sites. Some work in national parks or at historical sites, providing site protection
and educating the public. Others assess building sites to ensure that construction plans comply with federal regulations on site
preservation. Archeologists often specialize in a particular geographic area, period, or objects of study, such as animal remains or
underwater sites.
The following are examples of types of anthropologists:
Biological anthropologists, also known as physical anthropologists, research the evolution of the human species. They look
for early evidence of human life, analyze genetics, study primates, and examine the biological variations in humans. They analyze how
culture and biology influence each other. Some may examine human remains found at archeological sites to understand population
demographics or to identify factors—such as nutrition and disease—that affected these populations. Others may work as forensic
anthropologists in medical or legal settings, identifying and analyzing skeletal remains and genetic material.
Cultural anthropologists study the customs, cultures, and social lives of groups. They investigate social practices and processes in
settings that range from remote, unindustrialized villages to modern urban centers. Cultural anthropologists often spend time living in
the societies they study and collect information through observations, interviews, and surveys.
Linguistic anthropologists study how humans communicate and how language shapes social life. They investigate nonverbal
communication, the structure and development of languages, and differences among languages. They also examine the role of language
in different cultures, how social and cultural factors affect language, and how language affects a person’s experiences. Most linguistic
anthropologists study non-European languages, which they learn directly from native speakers.
Work Environment
Some anthropologists and archeologists excavate
artifacts.
Anthropologists and archeologists held about 7,200 jobs in 2012. They worked in research organizations, colleges and universities,
museums, consulting firms, private corporations, and all levels of government.
The industries that employed the most anthropologists and archeologists in 2012 were as follows:
Research and development in the social sciences and humanities
25%
Federal government, excluding postal service
21
Management, scientific, and technical consulting services
16
The work of anthropologists varies widely, depending on the specific job. Although most anthropologists work in an office, some analyze
samples in laboratories or work in the field.
Archeologists often work for cultural resource management (CRM) firms. CRM firms identify, assess, and preserve archeological sites
and ensure that developers and builders comply with regulations regarding archeological sites. Archeologists also work in museums, at
historical sites, and for government agencies, such as the U.S. Department of the Interior’s National Park Service.
Anthropologists and archeologists often do fieldwork, either in the United States or in foreign countries. Fieldwork may involve
learning foreign languages, living in remote areas, and examining and excavating archeological sites.
Fieldwork for anthropologists and archeologists usually requires travel for extended periods—about 4 to 8 weeks, but sometimes
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Anthropologists and Archeologists : Occupational Outlook Handbook : U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
longer. Field assignments also may require travel to remote areas or international locations, where anthropologists must live with the
people they study to learn about their culture. The work may involve rugged living conditions and strenuous physical exertion.
Anthropologists are expected to adapt to changing environments, integrate into new social circles, and often conduct research in a
foreign language.
While in the field, anthropologists and archeologists often work long hours to meet research deadlines. In addition, many must deal
with limited funding for their projects. As a result, fieldwork can be stressful.
Work Schedules
Many anthropologists and archeologists in government, research and consulting firms, museums, and businesses work full time during
regular business hours. When doing fieldwork, however, anthropologists and archeologists may be required to travel and work long
hours, including evenings and weekends.
How to Become an Anthropologist or Archeologist
Anthropologists and archeologists may
live in the community they are
studying.
Anthropologists and archeologists need a master’s degree or Ph.D. in anthropology or archeology. Experience doing anthropological or
archeological fieldwork is also important. Bachelor’s degree holders may find work as assistants or fieldworkers.
Education
Anthropologists and archeologists may qualify for many positions with a master’s degree in anthropology or archeology. Most master’s
degree programs are 2 years in duration and include field research.
Although a master’s degree is enough for many positions, a Ph.D. may be needed for jobs that require leadership skills and advanced
technical knowledge. To direct projects outside the United States, anthropologists and archeologists typically need a Ph.D. to comply
with the requirements of foreign governments. A Ph.D. takes several years of study beyond a master’s degree and completion of a
doctoral dissertation. Ph.D. students typically spend between 12 and 30 months doing field research for their dissertation.
Those with a bachelor’s degree in anthropology or archeology and work experience gained through an internship or field school can
work as field or laboratory technicians or assistants. However, anthropologists and archeologists need a master’s degree to advance
beyond entry-level positions.
Many people with a Ph.D. in anthropology or archeology become professors or museum curators. For more information, see the
profiles on postsecondary teachers and archivists, curators, and museum technicians.
Other Experience
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Anthropologists and Archeologists : Occupational Outlook Handbook : U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
In order to get a job, graduates of anthropology and archeology programs usually need work experience in these fields and training in a
variety of research methods. Many candidates fulfill this requirement through field training or internships with museums, historical
societies, or nonprofit organizations.
Anthropology and archeology students typically spend part of their graduate program conducting field research, often working abroad
or in community-based research. Many students also attend archeological field schools, which teach students how to excavate historical
and archeological sites and how to record and interpret their findings and data.
Important Qualities
Analytical skills. Anthropologists and archeologists need knowledge of scientific methods and data, which are often used in their
research.
Critical-thinking skills. Anthropologists and archeologists must be able to draw logical conclusions from observations, laboratory
experiments, and other methods of research.
Investigative skills. Anthropologists and archeologists must seek and explore all facts relevant to their research. They must be able
to combine pieces of information to try to solve problems and to answer research questions.
Writing skills. Anthropologists and archeologists need strong writing skills because they often write reports detailing their research
findings and publish results in scholarly journals and public interest publications.
Pay
Anthropologists and Archeologists
Median annual wages, May 2012
Social scientists and related
workers
$69,290
Anthropologists and
archeologists
Total, all occupations
$57,420
$34,750
Note: All Occupations includes all occupations in the U.S. Economy.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment Statistics
The median annual wage for anthropologists and archeologists was $57,420 in May 2012. The median wage is the wage at which half
the workers in an occupation earned more than that amount and half earned less. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $33,330, and
the top 10 percent earned more than $91,140.
In May 2012, the median annual wages for anthropologists and archeologists in the top three industries employing these workers were
as follows:
Federal government, excluding postal service
Research and development in the social sciences
and humanities
Management, scientific, and technical consulting
services
$72,700
52,090
51,470
Many anthropologists and archeologists in government, research and consulting firms, museums, and businesses work full time during
regular business hours. When doing fieldwork, however, anthropologists and archeologists may be required to travel and work long
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Anthropologists and Archeologists : Occupational Outlook Handbook : U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
hours, including evenings and weekends.
Job Outlook
Anthropologists and Archeologists
Percent change in employment, projected 2012-22
Anthropologists and
archeologists
19%
Social scientists and related
workers
11%
Total, all occupations
11%
Note: All Occupations includes all occupations in the U.S. Economy.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections program
Employment of anthropologists and archeologists is projected to grow 19 percent from 2012 to 2022, faster than the average for all
occupations. However, because it is a small occupation, the fast growth will result in only about 1,400 new jobs over the 10-year period.
Anthropologists and archeologists will be needed to study human life, history, and culture, and to apply that knowledge to current
issues. Archeologists will also be needed to monitor construction projects, ensuring that builders comply with federal regulations on the
preservation and handling of archeological and historical artifacts.
In addition, corporations will increasingly use anthropological research to gain a better understanding of consumer demand within
specific cultures or social groups. Anthropologists and archeologists will also be needed to analyze markets, allowing businesses to serve
their clients better or to target new customers or demographic groups.
Because anthropological and archeological research is highly dependent on the amount of research funding, federal budgetary decisions
will affect the rate of employment growth in research.
Job Prospects
Overall job prospects will be best for candidates with a Ph.D. and extensive anthropological or archeological fieldwork experience.
Although job opportunities for anthropologists will continue to grow in businesses, consulting firms, and other non-traditional settings,
workers will likely face very strong competition for jobs because of the small number of positions.
Archeologists should have the best job prospects in cultural resource management (CRM) firms. However, because of the large number
of qualified graduates and relatively few positions available, jobseekers will likely face very strong competition. Candidates with
experience in both qualitative and quantitative research methods who can communicate findings to a wide variety of audiences will be
in greatest demand.
Employment projections data for Anthropologists and Archeologists, 2012-22
Occupational Title
Anthropologists and
archeologists
SOC
Code
19-3091
Employment,
2012
Projected Employment,
2022
7,200
8,600
Change, 2012-22
Percent Numeric
19
SOURCE: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections program
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1,400
Employment by
Industry
[XLS]
Anthropologists and Archeologists : Occupational Outlook Handbook : U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Similar Occupations
This table shows a list of occupations with job duties that are similar to those of anthropologists and archeologists.
OCCUPATION
JOB DUTIES
ENTRY-LEVEL EDUCATION
Archivists,
Curators, and
Museum
Workers
Archivists appraise, edit, and maintain
permanent records and historically valuable
documents. Curators oversee collections of
artwork and historic items, and may conduct
public service activities for an institution.
Museum technicians and conservators
prepare and restore objects and documents
in museum collections and exhibits.
See How to Become One
$44,410
Economists
Economists study the production and
distribution of resources, goods, and services
by collecting and analyzing data, researching
trends, and evaluating economic issues.
Master’s degree
$91,860
Geographers
Geographers study the earth and its land,
features, and inhabitants. They also examine
phenomena such as political or cultural
structures as they relate to geography. They
study the physical and human geographic
characteristics of a region, ranging in scale
from local to global.
Bachelor’s degree
$74,760
Historians
Historians research, analyze, interpret, and
present the past by studying a variety of
historical documents and sources.
Master’s degree
$52,480
Postsecondary
Teachers
Postsecondary teachers instruct students in a
wide variety of academic and vocational
subjects beyond the high school level. They
also conduct research and publish scholarly
papers and books.
See How to Become One
$68,970
Psychologists
Psychologists study cognitive, emotional, and
social processes and human behavior by
observing, interpreting, and recording how
people relate to one another and their
environments.
See How to Become One
$69,280
Sociologists
Sociologists study society and social behavior
by examining the groups, cultures,
organizations, social institutions, and
processes that people develop.
Master’s degree
$74,960
Survey
Researchers
Survey researchers design surveys and
analyze data. Surveys are used to collect
factual data, such as employment and salary
information, or to ask questions in order to
understand people’s opinions, preferences,
beliefs, or desires.
Master’s degree
$45,050
Contacts for More Information
For more information about careers in anthropology and archeology, visit
American Anthropological Association
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2012 MEDIAN PAY
Anthropologists and Archeologists : Occupational Outlook Handbook : U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
For more information about careers in archeology, visit
Archaeological Institute of America
Society for American Archaeology
For more information about physical anthropologists, visit
American Association of Physical Anthropologists
O*NET
Anthropologists and Archeologists
Anthropologists
Archeologists
Suggested citation:
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2014-15 Edition, Anthropologists and Archeologists,
on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/anthropologists-and-archeologists.htm (visited August 11, 2014).
Publish Date: Wednesday, January 8, 2014
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics | Office of Occupational Statistics and Employment Projections, PSB Suite 2135, 2 Massachusetts Avenue, NE
Washington, DC 20212-0001
www.bls.gov/ooh | Telephone: 1-202-691-5700
| Contact OOH
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